News

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Human rights lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Femi Falana, has appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to authorise the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards in Borno State as part of efforts to tackle insecurity in the region.

Falana made the call in a statement issued on Monday. He urged the Federal Government to extend to Borno some of the security measures recently introduced in Oyo State.

According to him, President Tinubu approved the recruitment of forest guards in Oyo State and also dispatched a high-level federal delegation to the state after the abduction of pupils and teachers.

The senior lawyer argued that Borno should receive similar attention due to the large number of residents who remain in captivity.

“In view of the fact that not less than 415 abducted school children and other citizens are in the illegal custody of bandits and terrorists in unknown forests in Borno State, the President should also dispatch a high-powered federal delegation to visit the state in solidarity with the people,” he said.

Falana stressed the need for immediate measures to improve security across the state, which has faced persistent attacks from armed groups.

“The President should equally approve the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards for the state without any further delay,” Falana added.

He also stated that any forest guards recruited should receive adequate training and equipment to enable them confront heavily armed criminal elements.

“The forest guards must be well trained and fully equipped to confront the bandits and terrorists who are armed with AK-47 and other dangerous weapons,” he said.

Falana further called on the Federal Government to reconsider the legal case involving members of the Nigeria Forest Security Service. He said the government’s recent endorsement of the forest guard initiative should influence its position on the matter.

“Since the Federal Government has now embraced the forest guard initiative, the Attorney-General should discontinue the criminal case pending at the Federal High Court against the seven leaders and members of the Nigeria Forest Security Service,” he said.

He maintained that the proposed actions would strengthen security efforts in Borno State and demonstrate the government’s commitment to safeguarding citizens and restoring public confidence.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Nine persons abducted by suspected bandits along the Akwando-Kachia Road in Kaduna State have regained their freedom after spending 36 days in captivity.

The victims, made up of six schoolchildren, their driver and two other adults, were kidnapped on April 26, 2026, when armed men attacked a vehicle transporting pupils from Akwando village to Kachia, the headquarters of Kachia Local Government Area.

Reports indicated that nine passengers were taken away during the attack, while a young girl lost her life in the incident.

The spokesperson of the Kuturmi Unity Development Association (KUDA), Mr. Manasseh Samuel, confirmed the release of the victims and disclosed that they returned home on Sunday.

“The victims returned home on Sunday morning after trekking for about six hours through the bush,” Samuel said.

He also appreciated individuals and groups who offered prayers and other forms of support that contributed to the victims’ release.

A former media aide to late Kaduna State Governor Patrick Ibrahim Yakowa, Mr. Reuben Buhari, also confirmed the development in a Facebook post. He stated that the victims secured their freedom on Sunday and arrived home the next morning after a lengthy journey through the bush.

Buhari wrote, “Thirty-six days after they were kidnapped while on their way to school in Kachia from Akwando village, six schoolchildren, the driver of the vehicle and two other adults regained their freedom yesterday and got home this morning after trekking for six hours in the bush.”

He added, “special gratitude to everyone for their prayers and contributions in different ways that led to their freedom.”

According to Buhari, the children went through a difficult and traumatic experience during their captivity and missed almost an entire school term. He, however, expressed gratitude to God for preserving their lives.

He also appealed for continued prayers for other kidnapped residents who remain in captivity, especially victims from Awon and Ariko villages.

Buhari noted that those abducted from Awon village have spent 42 days in the hands of their captors, while residents kidnapped from Ariko village have remained in captivity for 57 days.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

An investigation by Katsina Times has revealed that retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, abducted by bandits on Saturday, May 30, is currently being held by a well-known bandit leader identified as Kachalla Muhammadu, who operates in the Matazu area.

Multiple sources confirmed to the newspaper that the attack was carried out by a bandit group known as KB near Zakin Baure village, close to Matazu town. During the assault, the assailants abducted the retired general along with his wife.

According to the sources, the kidnappers were initially unaware of General Abubakar’s identity. Their primary objective was to capture a senior government official or a wealthy individual to demand ransom.

After the KB group seized the couple, the general was handed over to Kachalla Muhammadu, who is now believed to be holding him at an undisclosed hideout.

Kachalla Muhammadu, a young man under 30 years of age, hails from Sayaya district in Matazu Local Government Area. He comes from a settlement known as Kogon Maidawa, where his parents and other relatives still reside.

In the past, Kachalla Muhammadu was among the bandits who accepted a peace agreement with the government. In an audio recording that once circulated on social media, he stated that since embracing peace, he had been working to protect communities in the local government areas of Matazu, Musawa, Kankia, and Charanchi from bandit attacks.

However, in the same recording, he expressed dissatisfaction with the peace deal after soldiers from Kano State raided the Jikamshi market, arresting some of his men and seizing his cattle. He alleged that despite his efforts, neither his men nor his livestock were returned.

Sources said the military raid was carried out without the approval of security agencies or the Katsina State Government. According to the reports, it was after this incident that Kachalla Muhammadu resumed launching severe attacks in the area. He is accused of leading an assault on Jikamshi town, which resulted in the loss of many lives.

Negotiations are currently ongoing with Kachalla Muhammadu to secure the safe release of the retired major general, sources confirmed.

Authorities in Katsina State have continued to take measures and hold consultations to address the deteriorating security situation and restore peace following this abduction and other recent challenges in the region.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi II, has praised the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Adewale Adeniyi, and said President Bola Tinubu’s recent commendation of the Customs chief demonstrates the confidence the President has in his leadership.

The monarch spoke on Thursday during the annual Eid-el-Kabir celebration organised by Adeniyi at his residence in Modakeke, Osun State.

The gathering drew traditional rulers, political figures, senior Customs officials, community leaders, family members, friends and other associates.

Oba Ogunwusi said the President’s public remarks on Adeniyi’s performance showed recognition of the achievements recorded under his leadership of the Nigeria Customs Service.

“We are very proud of him and the work he is doing. When Mr President publicly expressed satisfaction with his performance, it was not a casual statement. It reflects trust in his capacity and the results he is delivering. What he is doing in the Customs Service and in the community shows that he is a unifier.”

The Ooni described Adeniyi as a leader who promotes unity and pledged the continued support of the Ife Kingdom.

“He brings people together, and that is what leadership is about. We will continue to stand by him and pray for him.”

In his remarks, Adeniyi thanked the Ooni, community leaders, family members, friends, associates and other supporters for their encouragement and goodwill.

He said Eid-el-Kabir serves as a reminder of the values of sacrifice, gratitude, obedience and service to humanity. He also noted that the occasion provides an avenue for people to renew relationships and reflect on their shared responsibility toward community and national development.

The Customs boss stated that the Service has recorded notable achievements in revenue collection, trade facilitation, anti-smuggling operations, technological advancement and corporate social responsibility programmes. He said these efforts align with the economic goals of the Federal Government.

According to Adeniyi, the NCS remains committed to supporting President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda through reforms designed to ease legitimate trade, strengthen national security, improve compliance and promote economic expansion.

He added that the Service has sustained investments in community-based projects across the country, including education and healthcare initiatives aimed at improving the welfare of citizens.

Adeniyi assured stakeholders that Customs would continue implementing reforms to enhance its operations and increase its contribution to national development. He also reaffirmed the Service’s commitment to professionalism, transparency and quality service delivery.

The Comptroller-General further thanked President Tinubu for the opportunity to serve and pledged the continued support of the Nigeria Customs Service for government policies intended to drive economic growth and national development.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Iran has suspended indirect negotiations with the United States amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, citing Israel’s military operations in Lebanon as the reason for the move.

According to a report published on Monday by Iran’s state-aligned Tasnim news agency, Tehran halted the exchange of messages with Washington after Israeli forces expanded their military campaign in southern Lebanon despite an earlier ceasefire arrangement.

Iran had reportedly agreed to Pakistan-mediated discussions with the United States on the condition that a regional ceasefire would be maintained. However, recent developments in Lebanon, including Israel’s capture of the historic Beaufort Castle over the weekend, have heightened tensions across the region.

The report stated that Iranian authorities were angered by what they described as continued Israeli incursions and an expanding presence in Lebanese territory.

“Tehran is stopping the negotiations and exchange of messages through a mediator,” Tasnim reported, citing top-tier intelligence sources.

Iran has also demanded an “immediate cessation of hostilities” in Lebanon and Gaza before any future dialogue with Washington can resume.

In addition to suspending talks, Tehran and allied groups across the region, including the Houthis in Yemen and Iraqi paramilitary factions, have indicated they are prepared to “activate other fronts.”

The warning includes threats to disrupt maritime traffic through the Bab al-Mandab Strait and close the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global shipping route that handles a significant share of the world’s oil exports.

The growing conflict has attracted international concern. France has called for an emergency meeting of the United Nations Security Council to address Israel’s expanding military operations in Lebanon.

French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot described the situation as “unacceptable,” stating that “nothing can justify the prolongation of Israeli military operations in Lebanon and its increasingly deep occupation of Lebanese territory.”

British Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper also expressed concern over the conflict. She said Israel’s military actions were “deeply damaging” and warned that continued hostilities could undermine stability across the Middle East.

The suspension of talks comes after a fragile ceasefire reached between Tehran and Washington in April. The truce followed a period of direct confrontation involving Iran, the United States and Israel.

Both sides had reportedly been discussing an extension of the ceasefire and possible progress on Iran’s nuclear programme before the latest escalation.

Meanwhile, the US Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed that it conducted what it described as “measured and deliberate strikes” against Iranian assets over the weekend.

CENTCOM said the attacks were in response to “aggressive Iranian actions,” including the reported downing of an American MQ-1 Predator drone.

Iran, however, maintained that the drone had entered its airspace, prompting retaliatory action.

Analysts say the combination of intensified fighting in Lebanon, the collapse of diplomatic contacts between Tehran and Washington, and threats against major maritime corridors has increased fears of a broader regional crisis with potential consequences for global trade and energy supplies.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has dismissed a proposal for a new national minimum wage of N100,000, arguing that the amount is insufficient to address the economic challenges facing Nigerian workers.

The position was made known by the NLC spokesperson, Benson Upah, during an interview on Sunday. His comments came after the Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) and Governor of Kwara State, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, disclosed that governors were considering a minimum wage of N100,000.

AbdulRazaq made the disclosure during a Sallah visit to President Bola Tinubu in Lagos. He said state governors were consulting with the Federal Government and organised labour in search of a wage structure that would improve workers’ welfare while remaining financially sustainable.

In a Facebook post on Saturday, the governor explained that the proposal was influenced by rising inflation, increasing living expenses and mounting financial pressure on workers.

Responding to the development, Upah acknowledged the governors’ willingness to review wages but maintained that the proposed figure fell short of workers’ needs.

“We consider it thoughtful of the Kwara State Governor for proposing this, but certainly, N100,000 falls far below or behind the realistic figure,” he said.

The labour leader pointed to the weakening value of the naira, persistent inflation, higher electricity tariffs, rising petrol prices, reduced purchasing power and the impact of new tax measures as reasons a much higher wage was necessary.

“Given the realities around the exchange rate, inflation, raised tariffs, surge in the pump price of petrol and associated costs, decline in the purchasing power of the average worker, effects of the new regime of taxes on our cost of living, the realistic figure, subject to status quo maintenance, would be N1m,” he stated.

Upah also argued that increased government revenues should make improved wages achievable.

“In light of the earnings by governments, this should not be a big issue.

“Check what is being shared at FAAC. The windfall from the Middle East war has put over N5tn in the treasury. Though this is temporary, it is nonetheless very good for governments,” he added.

He further stressed the importance of investing in the workforce, which he described as a critical national asset.

“Finally, please note that the greatest asset of any nation is its workforce,” he said.

The debate over wages has intensified since the removal of fuel subsidies and the floating of the naira, policies that have contributed to a sharp rise in living costs.

The Federal Government approved a new national minimum wage of N70,000 in July 2024 after lengthy negotiations with organised labour. The agreement replaced the previous N30,000 minimum wage that came into effect in 2019.

Despite the increase, labour unions have continued to argue that the current wage level does not reflect prevailing economic realities. Inflation data released by the National Bureau of Statistics has shown sustained increases in food and consumer prices, leaving many workers struggling to meet basic household needs.

The Nigeria Governors’ Forum has yet to formally submit any new minimum wage proposal to either the Federal Government or organised labour.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

A high-level Federal Government delegation on Sunday visited Esiele and Yawota communities in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State following the abduction of pupils and teachers from Community Grammar School, Baptist Nursery and Primary School, and L.A. Primary School on May 15, 2026.

The visit came as part of immediate federal interventions aimed at strengthening security in the area. President Bola Tinubu subsequently approved the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards in Oyo State in collaboration with the state government.

The delegation also informed community leaders and lawmakers that the request for the establishment of a military base in the affected area would be transmitted to the President for consideration and possible approval.

In addition, the President directed a specialised security unit with advanced rescue capabilities to intensify operations aimed at securing the release of the abducted pupils and teachers.

The delegation was led by the President’s Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila. Other members included the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu; the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun; the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa; and the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communications, Sunday Dare.

Gbajabiamila, who addressed residents in English and Yoruba, said the President’s decision to send top security officials to the affected communities reflected his commitment to ensuring the safe return of the victims.

“Mr. President is deeply troubled by this incident. Whatever it takes, our children and teachers will be brought back home safely.

“He has issued all necessary directives and is providing every support required by our security agencies to achieve that objective.

“Your pain and anxiety are understood. By the grace of God, your children will return safely to your arms.

“Mr. President also saw the appeals from some parents and community members urging caution in the rescue efforts. Let me assure you that the operation will be intelligence-led and carefully coordinated, deploying both kinetic and non-kinetic measures to secure the safe return of the victims,” he said.

The delegation also visited the palace of the Soun of Ogbomoso land, HRM Kabiyesi Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, to commiserate with him and members of his domain.

They further met the wife of a deceased school teacher, Mrs. Mary Oyedokun, alongside her two children, where the Chief of Staff conveyed the President’s condolences and assurance of support for the family.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

A joint military air operation involving the Nigerian Armed Forces under Operation HADIN KAI and the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) has killed 21 suspected fighters of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) in Borno State.

Military sources confirmed that the strike took place on May 30 in Arege, Kukawa Local Government Area. The target was a suspected terrorist base identified through intelligence reports that indicated insurgent activity in the area.

Security analyst and counter-insurgency expert, Zagazola Makama, reported that surveillance and reconnaissance missions first established the presence of ISWAP members before the air raid was authorised.

The operation focused on a camp believed to be used by the group to coordinate and plan attacks across the Lake Chad region. The strike left 21 fighters dead and caused major disruption to the group’s operations in the area.

Military officials explained that the mission forms part of ongoing security cooperation between Nigeria and the United States. The partnership aims to dismantle terrorist networks, destroy hideouts, and reduce the operational strength of insurgents in the North-East.

They further described the attack as intelligence-led and carefully planned to maximise impact on the identified target.

According to the sources, the success of the operation reflects growing collaboration between Nigerian security forces and international partners in the fight against terrorism.

The officials also expressed confidence that continued coordinated strikes would weaken insurgent activity around the Lake Chad Basin, where terrorist groups have continued attempts to regroup and launch attacks on nearby communities.

The United States has confirmed that it carried out fresh military strikes in southern Iran on Monday, hitting Iranian missile installations as well as boats allegedly attempting to lay mines.

The announcement was made in a statement issued by the United States Central Command (CENTCOM) through its spokesperson, Capt. Tim Hawkins.

CENTCOM said the operation was conducted in self-defence and aimed at safeguarding American troops from threats linked to Iranian forces.

“US forces conducted self-defence strikes in southern Iran today to protect our troops from threats posed by Iranian forces.

“US Central Command continues to defend our forces while using restraint during the ongoing ceasefire,” the statement said.

Meanwhile, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) of Iran said on Tuesday that it had shot down a US drone and also fired at a fighter jet alongside another drone that entered Iranian airspace.

The IRGC further stated that Iran retained what it described as a legitimate and definite right to respond to any alleged ceasefire violations by the United States.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Dr. Ibrahim Adamu Usman, the former Labour Party (LP) senatorial candidate for Gombe North, has resigned from the party and declared his support for the governorship ambition of Professor Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami, former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, who is seeking the ticket of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Dr. Usman announced his defection at a gathering of his supporters, stating that the decision followed extensive consultations with his followers, community leaders, and key political stakeholders across the Gombe North Senatorial District.

He said his move was necessitated by Pantami’s entry into the PDP and his own desire to contribute to the development of Gombe State and Nigeria at large.

“This decision is the product of deep discussions with my supporters, community leaders, and political stakeholders across Gombe North,” he said.

The former senatorial candidate described Pantami as a distinguished academic, a cybersecurity expert, a technocrat, and a key driver of digital transformation in Nigeria.

He added that Pantami’s record as a minister,  particularly in youth empowerment, community development, and digital innovation, had convinced him that the PDP offers a platform capable of delivering meaningful change in Gombe State.